Stories

A study in Health Economics revealed that state bans on flavored e-cigarettes may lead young adults to increase traditional cigarette use. Led by Henry Saffer, the research used survey data to analyze the unintended consequences of these bans. Among 18-24-year-olds, there was a 2-3% decrease in e-cigarette use alongside a similar rise in cigarette smoking, indicating a substitution effect. Evidence also suggested a potential increase in smoking among minors. Older adults were less affected. Similar studies show bans reduce vaping but increase smoking, indicating the need for nuanced public health policies to address unintended outcomes.

Canada’s war on nicotine has reached an extreme burden. With a 124% tax hike, sweeping flavor bans, and a “nicotine control” agenda, millions of adult vapers are in danger of being pushed back to smoking. Shot on location at GFN 2025 in Warsaw, Sam Tam, president of the Canadian Vaping Association, warns that misguided policies are destroying small businesses, fueling the black market, and undermining Canada’s smoke-free future.

The Malaysia Retail Electronic Cigarette Association criticizes the Health Parliament Special Select Committee's biased report recommending a complete e-cigarette ban without input from stakeholders. MRECA stresses the importance of consulting industry members, including manufacturers and consumers, before making allegations. They advocate for transparent regulations based on evidence and call for fair consultation processes to prevent biased recommendations. MRECA emphasizes the need for comprehensive reviews based on factual data to avoid unjustly targeting the vape industry. Adzwan Ab Manas urges inclusive decision-making to maintain credibility and ensure industry involvement in public health solutions.

Quitting smoking significantly boosts recovery from substance use disorders (SUDs), with odds rising up to 42 times. The importance of addressing smoking in addiction treatment is emphasized by experts like Dr. Volkow and Dr. Compton. Historical views linking quitting smoking with hindering recovery are debunked by studies showing no negative impact on SUD outcomes. Treatments like nicotine replacement therapy and medications are recommended. Vaping's role in SUD recovery is uncertain but reducing nicotine intake is advised. Smoking cessation, including vaping, is crucial for SUD patients' health and healing, as all addictive substances impact recovery pathways in the brain. Prioritizing smoking cessation in addiction treatment is vital for positive outcomes.

A recent study in The Lancet reveals a rise in e-cigarette use among Irish people, particularly the youth, without a strong link to quitting smoking. Although some evidence suggests that e-cigarettes may assist in smoking cessation, concerns about health risks and a new generation getting hooked on nicotine are growing. The research calls for urgent action to curb vaping, especially among young people. Despite declining smoking rates in Ireland, the use of nicotine products, including e-cigarettes, has surged. The study, based on data from the Healthy Ireland survey, warns of a significant public health issue and emphasizes the need for stricter regulations on vaping.

Texas now prohibits the marketing and sale of most disposable e-cigarette products, including THC vapes, under Senate Bill 2024, effective from Sept. 1. The law targets products designed to appeal to minors and those produced in certain countries. Despite concerns about impacting businesses like The Glassmith, some individuals like Andrés Valdez rely on THC and vapes for medical reasons. Critics, including Tyler Varisco, question the ban's effectiveness in managing substance use. Meanwhile, students like Matthew Handojo highlight the potential risks of obtaining vapes from unregulated sources.

Sesh, a newcomer in the nicotine product market, aims to challenge established brands like Zyn by offering safer white pouches. Backed by celebrities and $40 million in funding, Sesh's unique formula sets it apart. While still addictive, pouches are seen as a less harmful alternative to cigarettes and vapes. Despite concerns about attracting new users, Sesh focuses on responsible marketing and growth. With FDA approval and growing popularity, Sesh strives to redefine nicotine consumption and compete with Big Tobacco. The company's success reflects a shift towards safer nicotine products and away from traditional smoking methods.

Denver's ban on flavored tobacco products, signed by Mayor Mike Johnston, targets vapes, e-cigarettes, and menthol cigarettes, with full enforcement set for January 1, 2026. Supporters argue these products are marketed to youth and minority communities. A coalition is pushing to repeal the ban, collecting over 17,000 signatures. Proponents, such as health organizations, formed Denver Kids vs Big Tobacco to promote the ban. Critics, led by the Rocky Mountain Smoke Free Alliance, advocate for stricter regulations instead. The ban's fate will be determined by voters this November, shaping Denver's stance against the tobacco industry. The move follows a vetoed 2021 ban and aligns Denver with other Colorado cities combatting flavored tobacco.

Nicotine and alcohol activate a brain circuit connecting reward and anxiety by triggering an inhibitory feedback loop between dopaminergic neurons. This mechanism explains why these substances reinforce consumption behavior while inducing anxiety. Researchers used optogenetics to block this loop and prevent anxious behavior. The study sheds light on the link between reward and negative emotions, providing insights into addiction and co-use of tobacco and alcohol.

A study observed pregnant smokers using very low-nicotine cigarettes (VLNC), sparking debate over reducing harms. Published in Preventative Medicine, it aimed to explore effects on smoking during pregnancy. Yet, critics argue VLNCs may not decrease smoking and could be as harmful. The FDA proposed reducing nicotine in tobacco, claiming it could prevent deaths. However, opponents question its efficacy and advocate for safer alternatives like vaping. The study found VLNCs didn’t reduce smoking in pregnant women but also didn't lead to more smoking. Researchers defended the study's ethical standards, stating it was not a smoking-cessation trial but part of a national policy investigation. Critics, like Dr. Michael Siegel, demand retraction, citing ethical violations.